Spirometry
There are a number of chest conditions which may cause breathing difficulties. Sometimes it is helpful to see how well you breathe out to help diagnose any condition or to see if the treatment you are having is working well. This may involve you blowing into a machine – a spirometer – which measures how well you can breathe out. There may be requirements necessary before you have the test done, such as withholding use of your usual inhalers for a few hours and and avoiding vigorous exercise prior to the test. Your GP or nurse will advise you if this is necessary.